Lifting operations

Mechanical lifting operations

Young people (under 18 years) should not be allowed to use high-risk lifting machinery unless they have the necessary maturity and competence which includes having successfully completed appropriate training. Examples of high-risk lifting equipment which normally should not be operated by young people include:

• cranes;
• construction site hoists; and
• fork-lift trucks.

There may be substantial risks associated with the use of lifting accessories, for example during ‘slinging’ and employers need to assess whether such work is appropriate for young people. However, young people may use high-risk lifting machinery during training as long as they are adequately supervised. They should also be supervised after training if considered not sufficiently mature.

The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) apply to lifting equipment in all premises and work situations subject to the Health and Safety at Work etc Act. Safe use of lifting equipment. Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. Approved Code of Practice and guidance L113 contains further information.

The Docks Regulations 1988 prohibit any young person (under 18 years) from operating a powered lifting appliance in the course of docks operations, unless undergoing a suitable course of training under the proper supervision of a competent person. Members of Her Majesty’s Forces are exempt from this prohibition.

Lift trucks

Rider-operated lift trucks. Operator training. Approved Code of Practice and guidance  L117 states that operators of lift trucks on docks premises must be aged at least 18 years. Young people (under 18 years) should not be allowed to operate lift trucks on other premises without adequate supervision unless they have the necessary competence and maturity, as well as having successfully completed appropriate training. Children under the MSLA should never operate lift trucks